AiVibeISA-88 (Batch Control)
ISA-88, also published internationally as IEC 61512, is the standard for batch control that defines models and terminology for separating recipes from equipment control, making batch processes flexible, consistent and easier to automate.
ISA-88 defines a physical model that organises a plant from enterprise and site down through area, process cell, unit, equipment module and control module. Its procedural control model breaks a recipe procedure into unit procedures, operations and phases, where phases are the smallest elements that perform process-oriented tasks such as dosing, heating or agitating. It also defines recipe types, from general and site recipes to master and control recipes, separating what to make from the equipment that makes it.
ISA-88 is widely applied in pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, speciality chemicals, cosmetics and other industries that produce in batches. Separating recipes from equipment logic lets manufacturers introduce new products by creating recipes rather than reprogramming controllers, and supports consistent execution and batch records. Its modular principles are also used for discrete and packaging machines, where the PackML state model builds on ISA-88 concepts.
Implementation usually combines a batch management application with controller-level phase logic, often structured with sequential function charts and a defined phase state model. Successful projects define the physical and procedural models early and keep equipment phases reusable. Electronic batch records produced by ISA-88 systems help manufacturers in regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals meet record-keeping requirements.
Key points
- Standard for batch control, also published as IEC 61512
- The physical model runs from enterprise down to control module
- Procedural model: procedure, unit procedure, operation and phase
- Separates recipes from equipment control for flexibility
- PackML for packaging machines builds on ISA-88 concepts
Where AiVibe comes in
AiVibe designs and manufactures the AiAmbA AI Factory, whose edge devices and AI agents let people talk to PLC, CNC and robot controllers in plain language. Agents only propose changes, a trained operator confirms each one, and the AI Factory never replaces a machine's control or safety systems.